Asia Tech Wire (July 19) -- Meituan may formally launch its delivery business in Riyadh as early as September, according to Chinese media outlet National Business Daily.

Citing a number of people close to Meituan's overseas operations, and local merchants in the Middle East, the media outlet said that Meituan has been making rapid progress in Riyadh regarding the layout of its delivery business since opening several positions in the Saudi Arabian capital in April this year.

The Chinese food delivery giant has now recruited a number of local staff, both nationals and from other countries, the report said.

In addition, Meituan has talked with a number of international catering operators and local restaurants about cooperation, and has reached cooperation agreements with local companies providing delivery drivers.

Now that preparations for ground promotion, delivery driver training and access to local restaurants are nearing completion, Meituan is likely to officially launch its delivery business in Riyadh in September or October.

In this regard, Meituan has not yet made a public response.